How to identify Split Gill Fungus

To correctly identify Split Gill Fungus (Schizophyllum commune), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   Small, fan-shaped, whitish to grayish, often with a hairy or fuzzy texture.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Distinctive split gills that split lengthwise, whitish to grayish.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Short or absent, lateral if present.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Thin and tough.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Small, fan-shaped, and often clustered.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Grows on dead wood of various trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Hairy or fuzzy

Growth Form

Clustered or solitary

Spore Print

White

Body color

Whitish to grayish

Odor

Mild or indistinct

Flesh bruises

No bruising reaction

Height

Up to 2 cm

Cap Diameter

0.5-4 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical or flattened
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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